Before the launch of the Mercedes-Benz CLA EV, the popular luxury car brand discontinued the A-Class Limousine, EQA, EQB, and EQE. This has been done as the brand has decided to focus only on the higher-end models in its portfolio.
In an official statement, the brand said, “We have completely sold out the existing stock of these models in India. Customers looking for the latest generation BEV can explore the new CLA, which is the most ‘intelligent Mercedes-Benz ever’ and has created a new benchmark in the luxury BEVs, debuting on 24th April.”
Eyeing the higher-end of the luxury segment
Last year, Mercedes-Benz saw a 23 percent drop in the sales of its entry-level cars. Instead of trying to regain the lost ground, the brand has chosen to quit the battle of lower-end cars, as the segment sees cut-throat competition due to competitive prices that also make the brand take cost-cutting measures. MD and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, Santosh Iyer, said, “Can we match our rivals selling at a lower price? Maybe not. But we would want to play on our strengths, and we will surely prioritise value over volume.”
Entry-level Mercedes-Benz to become pricier
With an ex-showroom price of Rs 44.46 – 45.92 lakh, the A-Class was the most affordable Mercedes-Benz car in India, serving as the entry point into the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Now the entry point to the Mercedes-Benz lineup is the GLA SUV, which costs Rs. 51.80 – 55 lakh (ex-showroom). Moreover, the upcoming CLA is expected to be priced at Rs. 55 – 59 lakh (ex-showroom).
Retrospecting Mercedes A-Class, EQA, EQB, and EQE
Launched in March 2021, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class limousine was the most affordable Mercedes-Benz car in India. While remaining on sale for 5 years, it received a facelift in 2023.
Launched in 2022, the Mercedes-Benz EQB was the brand’s first three-row electric SUV. It received a facelift in 2024. Its last recorded price was Rs. 70.9 – 77.5 lakh
Launched in September 2023, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV was an EV counterpart of the Mercedes-Benz GLE and priced at Rs. 1.39 Cr.
The Mercedes-Benz EQA was launched in 2024. With a starting price of Rs. 66 lakh, it was an EV counterpart to the GLA, and the most affordable Mercedes-Benz electric car in India.
